The Boston Terrier is a breed of dog developped in the USA in the second half of the 19th century, by interbreeding the English Bulldog, the Bull Terrier, the Boxer and the White Terrier (now extinct). This breed, firstly introduced as Round Head Terrier and then Boston Bull Terrier, was later officially named after its birthplace, Boston. It is considered the national dog of the country despite its Bulldog ancestry. Originally weighing up to 20 kg (44 pounds), the Boston Terrier was bred down in size and weight which now ranges from 4.5 –11.5 Kg (10 – 25 pounds).  The Boston Terrier has lost most of its terrier fighting characterisitics although it is perfectly capable of taking care of itself. Its good and considerate nature makes it an outstanding companion.

 

 

The Boston Terrier, also called the Boston Bull, is a small, compactly built and proportioned dog with a short muzzle that confirms its bulldog blood line.This breed has a graceful carriage conveying an impression of determination, strength and activity.The clean-cut body is rather short, the limbs are straight and muscular and the thighs are strong and well-muscled. The chest is broad and moderately deep and the ribs are well sprung. The topline is level and the rump curves slightly to the base of the tail.The head is short, square and is carried gracefully on a neck that is slightly arched. The skull is square, flat on top, free from wrinkles. The stop is well defined. The short, square wide and deep muzzle leads to an ample black nose, which is also wide, and has a well defined line between the nostrils.The large, round eyes are set wide apart and are dark in colour conveying a gentle expression of intelligence and alertness.The ears are small and fine and are located at corners of skull. They are carried erect.The tail is short, fine and tapering, straight or screw and is set on low. It must not be carried above the horizontal.The coat is short, brilliant, and fine-textured and comes in black, brindle or seal, with white markings (white muzzle band, white blaze between the eyes, white forechest).

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, peppy, highly intelligent breed. They can be somewhat stubborn and tenacious at times, but they are quick learners, very sensitive to the voice’s tone and are not difficult to train. They may be a little difficult to housebreak, though. Occasionally rambunctious, the Boston Terrier has a sense of humor, is enthusiastic and well-mannered. They do not bark much, have a devil-may-care attitude towards strangers and make poor watchdogs. Boston Terriers are loveable and affectionate and are most happy when they are in the company of family members.  They get along well with other dogs and other household non-canine pets although some males are dominant and may fight with other dogs especially if they feel their territory is being invaded. Boston Terriers are excellent house dogs, very good with elderly people and their excellent disposition turns them into superb children’s playmates.

BostonTerriers  may suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, stenotic nares, hypothyroidism, eye diseases, cataract and corneal dystrophy deafness, patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, epilepsy and dermatitis.

Bostons have a tendency to be flatulent and due to their flat nose,they can snore loudly.